Cancel Culture And The Indian Constitution: A Legal And Social Crossroad
- IJLLR Journal
- Jun 29
- 1 min read
Nelson, LPU School of Law - Jalandhar
ABSTRACT
Cancel culture, though born in the realm of public morality and social accountability, has gradually turned into a parallel form of trial where social media replaces the courtroom and public opinion replaces evidence. In India, where freedom of speech is a fundamental right under Article 19(1)(a), cancel culture raises pressing constitutional concerns. This article attempts to unpack the growing phenomenon of cancel culture in India and evaluates whether it aligns or conflicts with constitutional protections such as freedom of expression, dignity, right to reputation, and the presumption of innocence. Through the lens of constitutional law and case law analysis, this paper explores the extent to which cancel culture challenges legal safeguards and proposes a measured, rights-based approach that acknowledges the harm of both unchecked speech and unchecked judgment.
Keywords: Cancel Culture, Article 19, Freedom of Speech, Public Morality, Constitutional Law, Trial by Media, Right to Reputation
